Diversity of Fungi Associated with Dryas octopetala in Arctic and Alpine Regions
Author Information
Author(s): Marit Frederikke Bjorbækmo, Tor Carlsen, Anne Brysting, Trude Vrålstad, Klaus Høiland, Karl Inne Ugland, Jozsef Geml, Trond Schumacher, Håvard Kauserud
Primary Institution: University of Oslo
Hypothesis
Does the diversity of root associated fungi decrease towards arctic regions?
Conclusion
The diversity of fungi associated with Dryas octopetala does not decrease in high latitude arctic regions.
Supporting Evidence
- A total of 137 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were detected.
- There was no decrease in fungal diversity with increasing latitude.
- Species accumulation curves did not level off, indicating high diversity.
- 80.4% of the OTUs were detected in a single root system only.
Takeaway
This study found that the number of different fungi living with a plant called Dryas octopetala stays high even in very cold places like the Arctic.
Methodology
Fungal communities were identified using the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nuclear ribosomal DNA from bulk root samples.
Limitations
The study suggests that many fungal species remain undetected due to the non-asymptotic species accumulation curves.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website